As Emperor Beylon descended gracefully, the battlefield seemed to pause. The screams and chaos momentarily hushed, as though even the air held its breath in anticipation.
Dust and debris from Valdek's attack still swirled around, but through the settling mist, Beylon's calm smile shone like a beacon. It wasn't a smile of amusement or joy—it was the infuriating smile of a man who already knew he was in control. "I still suggest we discuss this."
Emperor Valdek's jaw tightened. His grip around the hilt of his golden blade grew firmer. The fury in his eyes blazed as he watched Beylon touch down lightly on the ground, a faint shimmer of protective magic still flickering around him. "Discuss?" Valdek spat the word like poison. "You expect diplomacy after slaughtering my men like cattle?"